Hera Pheri 3 director Priyadarshan says Paresh Rawal did not inform about exit

Actor Paresh Rawal shocked fans of the Hera Pheri franchise by revealing that he will no longer return to play the beloved character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte. However, it seems that the news of Rawal`s exit has also come as a surprise to filmmaker Priyadarshan, who was brought on board to direct the third installment of the comic caper. The film was all set to reunite the cast of Hera Pheri, including Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty.

Priyadarshan says Paresh Rawal did not inform about exit

Reacting to Rawal`s exit, Priyadarshan said that he was unaware of the actor`s decision to leave the film. He told Hindustan Times, “I don`t know why this happened because Paresh didn`t inform us. Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel, and I did, and both were on board.”

The filmmaker recently wrapped up the film Bhoot Bangla, which starred Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar.

Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar has reportedly sued Paresh Rawal for Rs 25 crore, claiming financial losses as the film’s producer. Reacting to the same, Priyadarshan said, “I don`t have anything to lose, but Akshay has invested money, and that could be the reason why he is taking this action. Paresh Rawal hasn`t spoken to me till date.”

Paresh Rawal says Priyadarshan tried changing his mind 

Talking to Mid-day about leaving Hera Pheri 3, Paresh said, “I know it came as a shock to many. We three make a great combination with Priyadarshanji directing us, but the fact is that I opted out because today I don’t feel like a part of it,” confirms the actor.

Speculation suggested that Rawal left the project owing to creative differences with the director, but he denied the rumours, saying, “I love Priyadarshan and have great respect and faith in him as a director. We have done wonderful movies together in the past and will continue to do so. There were no creative differences, nor is there a possibility of having any with him.” There is also conjecture that Rawal was not content with his remuneration. But the actor says that was never the issue. “No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just felt that it is a role I don’t want to do, that’s all,” he reiterates.

This article first appeared on Mid Day